Marsypopetalum modestum
Marsypopetalum modestum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Marsypopetalum modestum is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical profile. Researchers have focused on the plant's leaves, specifically investigating the properties of the ethyl acetate-soluble extract. This extract contains several bioactive compounds, including (+)-3-Acetylaltholactone, (+)-Altholactone, (+)-Goniofufurone, and (+)-Goniopypyrone. Preliminary studies highlight the potential therapeutic value of these chemicals through their demonstrated cytotoxic and antitumor activities. Consequently, this plant serves as a promising subject for ongoing pharmacological research into new cancer treatments.
- Synonyms
- Polyalthia Crassa · Polyalthia Modesta · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Marsypopetalum modestum is a taxonomically complex species characterized by a diverse array of botanical synonyms. Within scientific literature, it has been identified under various names, including Goniothalamus meeboldii and Goniothalamus tenasserimensis. The plant's shifting classification is further evidenced by its historical association with Marsypopetalum crassum. Researchers have also documented the species under the names Polyalthia crassa and Polyalthia modesta. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Marsypopetalum modestum is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the order Magnoliales. It specifically falls into the class Equisetopsida and is a distinguished member of the family Annonaceae. Furthermore, this plant is defined by its placement within the genus Marsypopetalum. Understanding these taxonomic relationships helps clarify its precise position in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Marsypopetalum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Marsypopetalum modestum is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its natural range spans across several key areas within Indo-China, including Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. In addition to these mainland territories, the species can be found inhabiting the Andaman Islands. It also extends its presence to the Nicobar Islands, showcasing its adaptability to various island environments. Collectively, these locations define the specific geographic footprint of this tropical plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Marsypopetalum modestum is recognized as a significant species within the rich plant diversity of Laos. Scientific investigations into this plant have revealed that it contains bioactive small-molecule constituents with notable medicinal potential. Specifically, research indicates that the plant exhibits significant antitumor activity. Furthermore, the compounds derived from this species have demonstrated measurable cytotoxic effects against cancer cells. These findings suggest that Marsypopetalum modestum could serve as a promising source for developing new therapeutic agents to treat cancer.
Compounds
Marsypopetalum modestum serves as a significant subject of interest regarding its chemical composition. Research into its biological makeup reveals that the plant contains the specific compound aristolactam AII. Furthermore, chemical analysis confirms that cinnamic acid is also present within the species. These secondary metabolites highlight the complex phytochemical profile inherent to the plant. Understanding such specific relationships is essential for further pharmacological exploration of the species.
Conditions
Preparations
Marsypopetalum modestum is prepared as an ethyl acetate-soluble extract. This specific extraction process allows for the isolation of various chemical constituents from the plant material. Such methods are essential for studying the bioactive properties contained within the species. The resulting extract serves as the foundation for further chemical analysis and purification. Consequently, this preparation technique is a critical step in exploring the plant's potential pharmacological applications.
Parts used
Marsypopetalum modestum possesses a distinct leaf structure that plays a vital role in its biological identity. While studies on related species like Polyalthia crassa focus on isolating cytotoxic styryl-lactones from foliage, understanding the specific components of Marsypopetalum modestum remains essential. The leaves of many plants in this category serve as primary sources for discovering complex chemical compounds. By examining these botanical parts, researchers can better categorize the morphological traits of the species. Ultimately, identifying such specific relationships helps clarify the diverse characteristics found within the plant kingdom.